Global Perspectives on Immunization Against SARS-CoV-2 During Pregnancy and Priorities for Future Research: An International Consensus Paper From the World Association of Infectious Diseases and Immunological Disorders
Bahaa Abu-Raya, Shabir A. Madhi, Saad B. Omer, Gayatri Amirthalingam, Michelle Giles, Katie L. Flanagan, Petra Zimmermann, Miguel O’Ryan, Marco Aurélio Palazzi Sáfadi, Vassiliki Papaevangelou, Kirsten Maertens, Nasamon Wanlapakorn, Vicens Díaz-Brito, Eline Tommelein, Susanna Esposito
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in pregnancy is associated with a higher risk for severe morbidity and mortality when compared with infection in non-pregnant women of childbearing age. An increasing number of countries recommend immunization against SARS-CoV-2 in pregnant women. Recent studies provide preliminary and supportive evidence on safety, immunogenicity and effectiveness of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines in pregnant women; however, important knowledge gaps remain which warrant further studies. This collaborative consensus paper provides a review of the current literature on COVID-19 vaccines in pregnant women, identifies knowledge gaps and outlines priorities for future research to optimize protection against SARS-CoV-2 in the pregnant women and their infants.